BEYOND THE HYPE

The bits that actually make a difference

Latest tech

The big K gets BMW’S excellent 10.25in colour TFT dash with a splitscreen, integrated sat nav and Bluetooth connectivity. Four ‘favourite’ buttons shortcut to the dash functions and cruise control. Rider aids, heated grips/seat and an electric screen are standard. Comfort and Tour packs (with an uprated stereo) are available as optional extras.

Clever lights

BMW’S adaptive LED headlights are standard on the K1600. They swivel from side to side when cornering and up and down, to stay level under acceleration and braking. ‘Welcome’, ‘Good-bye’ and ‘Follow me home’ lights are also standard and floor lighting is available as an option. Lights shine from under the bike to illuminate the ground, making it easier to find a footing for the side and centrestand at night.

Self-levelling ride

Electronic suspension still has semi-active damping that adjusts on the move depending on the riding mode you’re in. For 2022, front and rear preload self-adjusts automatically to compensate for the weight of the rider, pillion and luggage, taking data from the front and rear shock sensors and IMU. This ensures the K1600GT is always stable and balanced. braking and accelerating.

Engine, suspension and equipment upgrades are common to the entire 2022 K1600 range. They don’t markedly change the way they ride but there wasn’t much wrong with them in the first place and the GT in particular is endlessly impressive.

Sure, there are (much) cheaper and more fun ways to cover big miles but no tourer manages to combine such a high level of performance, luxury, elegance and all-round specialness.